Rodents Are Killing My Tomato Plants

Voles and other rodents can cause significant damage to tomato plants in several ways. They eat the tender plants and burrow under the ground, which can divert much-needed water away from the plants.

Companion Plants

One form of natural control is by using companion plants near your tomatoes. Some companion plants have shown promise in deterring voles and other rodents. These plants include daffodil bulbs, wormwood and allium.

Fencing

To prevent voles and similar-sized or larger rodents, install a wire-mesh fence around the garden or your tomatoes. The fence should stand at least 12 inches high, be buried 10 inches in the ground and have a mesh size of small than 1/4 inch.

Natural Predators

Voles and other rodents have many natural predators, including house cats. Wild animals that readily feed on small rodents are owls, snakes, shrews, foxes, coyotes and bobcats. Encourage owls and rodent-eating snakes, particularly, around your home.

Other Natural Control

Sprinkle hot pepper or hot sauce around your tomato plants. The capsaicin in hot peppers burns the tongue and skin of rodents as it does in people. Consider planting crown vetch around the perimeter of your garden; voles find it unpalatable.

References

• Colorado State University Extension; "Managing Voles in Colorado"; W.F. Andelt, S. Ahmed and K. Jones; June 2009
• Michigan State University Extension: Problem Solvers: Companion Planting
• University of California; Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program: Voles (Meadow Mice); T. P. Salmon and W. P. Gorenzel June, 2010